Cheryl Mack, a longtime educator in early childhood development, has joined the staff of New Community Corporation as Director of Community Hills Early Learning Center.
In her new role, Mack will oversee the operations of CHELC and will also supervise Harmony House Early Learning Center. She officially began her duties on July 21.
Formerly the center director of the Newark Preschool Council, Mack also previously worked for the state’s child protection and child welfare agency and as a job developer at the Urban League of Union County.
Mack said she is looking forward to building relationships with the students and families at CHELC but noted that she understands the real challenges that some households face.
“I’ve experienced working with broken families and homes,” said Mack, who held several positions while working at the Newark Preschool Council from 2001 to earlier this year. “You have to catch them when they’re young,” she added, emphasizing the important role of early learning.
She is excited for CHELC to welcome back students on the first day of school Sept. 4.
“I strongly believe that all children can learn. My goal is to ensure we provide developmentally appropriate activities that match the way each child learns,” said Mack, who earned a master’s degree in educational leadership at the College of Saint Elizabeth. She graduated from Newark Arts High School and attended William Paterson University, where she earned a bachelor’s degree in communications and sociology.
“Cheryl’s professional demeanor, warmth of personality and extensive background in early childhood education will go a long way at Community Hills Early Learning Center. Fall is a time of transition and as our students and families return to CHELC, we are excited for them to meet Cheryl and kick off a successful school year. Welcome, Cheryl!” CEO Richard Rohrman said.
A Newark native, Mack lives in Orange and has a daughter, Tiana, who will be a sophomore at Howard University this fall. In her free time, Mack said she is a fitness enthusiast and roots for the Pittsburgh Steelers.
